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  • Breast Implant Risks: What Is Capsular Contracture?
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Hi, I'm Dr. Elizabeth Morgan. I'm going to talk to you today about breast implant capsules and capsular contractures. I'm a board-certified plastic surgeon here in Atlanta, and it's something that confuses a lot of people. So, let me explain.

When you have an implant put in your body, your body is going to build a layer of tissue around it called a capsule to separate the implant from your body tissues. That is normal. It is not a problem. The problem happens is if that capsule becomes irritated by the implant, then that capsule thickens and shrinks. If it just thickens a bit, then your breast will feel a bit firm. It's not a big problem. Medicines can treat it but if it thickens a lot, then your breast may feel hard, it may be painful, and you're going to need something done about it.

Let me tell you about the differences of capsules around different implants. This is a gel implant with a smooth surface. It seems to be the one most likely to form a capsule. The rate is about 1% a year. This is a saline implant, also with a smooth surface. It doesn't feel as natural, but it's a little bit less likely to form capsules. This a textured implant. You can see that the surface is rough. There's some suggestion that textured surfaces will also reduce capsules.

When you come into a consultation for breast implants with your board-certified plastic surgeon, include in the discussion the risk of capsules and what to expect. Take care. Have a great day.

Breast Implant Risks: What Is Capsular Contracture?

Dr. Elizabeth Morgan discusses capsular contractures and which implants may carry a better track record of avoiding them.